विक्रम चरित (उज्जैन सम्राट् विक्रमादित्य - पराक्रम, न्याय एवं ३२ पुतलियों की कथा सटीक)

190 bedside, and told them that he could not long remain their friend and protector, but was about to pay the last debt of nature,—that he was thankful to God for prolonging his days so far, and for the happiness that had been vouchsafed to him. ‘But,’ said he, ‘I must now leave you and attend the call of the Supreme lawgiver. Be careful to follow my example, and bow with submission to the will of God, who orders everything for the good of his creatures. Remem- ber also that it is the lot of every man to die once.’ Then, addressing himself to his favorite child, he said, ‘My beloved Charoo, you are still unsettled in life. You are young, and do not yet know the world.. Be guided therefore by your elder brothers, who will instruct you in all that is necessary for your happiness. Be of good cheer, and do not take my departure from amongst you to heart. Be wise, and continue to live together in peace and harmony. Be virtuous, and you will meet with your reward hereafter.’ Shortly afterwards, the old man died, and his sons became the sole heirs to his immense property. They conducted themselves in such a manner as to deserve the applause of all good men, as well as of their neighbours and relatives. Young Charoo, however, had, unknown to all, become a confirmed gamester, which was not found out until it was too late to snatch him from the yawning chasm into which he was fast rushing: the habit had taken too deep-rooted a hold on him. In addition to his gaming propensities he was daily squandering away his share of the fortune in extravagant and riotous living. The two elder brothers tried to check the growing evil, and begged him repeatedly to reform his conduct, so detrimental to his prospects in life, and injurious alike to his character and fortune. They said that he who led a life of debauchery and excesses deserved to be treated in a severe manner, and be at last reduced to extreme poverty and want. Notwithstanding their continued entreaties and corrective advice, they regretted exceedingly to find that it was all of no more avail than was the good example set by themselves.